Make the treadmill your style runway with these ideas to look fashionable while fighting the flab

Cava out, cardio in. It's that time on the calendar when we give our sports kits a serious workout.

No matter how temporary, a devotion to fitness is undoubtedly the heavyweight of the New Year resolution list. But despite the good intentions, it's estimated £37 million a year is wasted on unused gym memberships.

If your resolve is slipping already, step up your motivation levels with a new fit kit and visions of Jessica Ennis's abs and make the treadmill your style runway.

Fresh air fanatic

A sports kit is a whole different ball game for those who get their fitness fix in the great outdoors.

Cotton is an absolute no-no as it absorbs heat and moisture and keeps it clinging to your body.

In the winter months, look to multiple layers of lightweight breathable clothing.

When you're pounding the pavements, stinky old trainers just won't do. See a footwear specialist to assess your running gait and seek a pair with soles equipped for the terrain you're running on. You'll be nicknamed Speedy Gonzales in no time.

Gym bunny

Those baggy jogging bottoms you lived in during the Christmas holidays should be banished to the back of the wardrobe.

Think of your kit like a motivational cheerleader. Get off the starting blocks by investing in a sports bag so cool you'll want to have it swinging over your shoulder as much as possible.

Put yourself on the fast track to a lean body with go faster stripes, zingy brights and lashings of supportive lycra that will get you bounding out of the gym changing rooms.

Banish the bounce with a supportive sports bra. If you have a bigger bust, avoid the generic 'small', 'medium' or 'large' and look for a style that's made for your individual size for the ultimate workout partner.

Mat member

Those who are right at home in a studio or, well, your own living room, can be a lean mean machine in the right togs.

Forget layers and poise in super-soft cottons and silk mixes.

Whether it's yoga, Pilates or yoga-lates, your workout routines are all about stretching and flexibility so comfort is key.

The term body-skimming might seem scary but baggy clothing can be revealing and obstructive when you're hovering in Downward Dog position. But go too tight and you'll restrict your full range of motion.

Get the balance just right with clean simple lines that gently hug the body so that you (or your instructor) can keep a check on your alignment.